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God gives us strength

It’s the final week before half term, and I think we are all at that stage where we are ready for half term. The question we are possibly asking ourselves is are we going to make it? It’s at times like this where this week’s promise The promise comes from Isaiah and says

So do not fear, for I am with you;do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

There are so many promises within this verse, but the one we are focussing on is that God gives us strength. I don’t think I particularly chose that for this week, but the timing is perfect. This term is a short one but a busy one, and it is at times like this, when we get tired and worn down that it is good to know that God gives us strength.

I was just watching the Voice, and one of the ladies auditioning has competed in the world’s strongest woman events. Her party trick is to pick up two grown men! Now, I know that I don’t have that kind of strength, I tried giving my 6ft7 husband a piggy back once and damaged my back (not surprisingly). But I do know that when I feel I can’t go on any more, that God will give me the strength to do what needs to be done. Whether that is to get through the rest of the term, or whether it is to stand up on stage and take an assembly. I don’t have to do it in my own strength.

We all have a tendency to think that we have to do everything on our own, and that actually it is a weakness to ask for any help. This verse could be seen to encourage that, if people read it to say that God will strengthen ME and help ME. But actually one of the strongest things you can do is to ask for help, yes, ask your loving Father God, but also ask other people. God provides what we need, and sometimes the thing we need is a helping hand. If we are stuck on a piece of work, or unsure what to do in a friendship or family situation, rather than struggling with it God may give us the strength to ask for some support.

We also need to be looking out for people who are burdened by something; whether it is someone carrying a load of books to a classroom who needs some physical help; or whether it is someone who seems to be worrying about something. Maybe God wants to use us, to be that strength for that person.

Prayer: Father God, thank you that even when we think things are unbearably tough, you give us the strength to carry on. May we be able to see when other people need our help, to be the strength they need. Amen

Challenge: If you are stuck on something this week, don’t struggle on your own but ask for help. BUT ALSO look out for people who seem to be struggling, and be the strength they need. Whether that is opening a door, or being a listening ear.